Holding steady.
Popularity of Hilmar since 1912
Babies named Hilmar per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 76 |
| 1920s | 68 |
| 1930s | 15 |
| 1940s | 11 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Hilmar is a rare Germanic and Scandinavian name with a distinctive sound and strong historical roots. Its peak year in the United States was 1913, when it first appeared in Social Security records, and it has never ranked in the top 1000 since. The name's trajectory has been stable but extremely uncommon, with an estimated 1-in-N incidence too low to calculate reliably. While it never gained wide popularity in America, it retains a quiet presence, often chosen by families with Nordic or German heritage. Despite its rarity, Hilmar carries a sense of tradition and strength, making it a unique choice for parents seeking a name with historical depth.
Hilmar is a name of Germanic and Scandinavian origin, likely derived from the Old Norse elements 'hildr' (battle) or 'hjalmr' (helmet) combined with 'mærr' (famous). It has been used in Germany, Iceland, and the Nordic countries since the medieval period, though never widespread. In the United States, it appeared in the early 20th century, primarily among families of German or Scandinavian heritage.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Hil, Hilly
Variants: Hilmár
Sibling names for Hilmar
Names that share Hilmar's style, for a brother or sister.
